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Cannibal Star

All articles tagged with #cannibal star

astronomy1 year ago

"Zombie Star Displays Metal Scar from Devouring Planets"

Astronomers using the European Southern Observatory’s Very Large Telescope have discovered a metallic scar on a dying Earth-sized star, indicating the remains of a shredded planetoid or asteroid. The concentrated patch of planetary material is held in place by the star's magnetic field, challenging previous theories. This discovery sheds light on the destructive potential of stars and the nature of planetary material they consume, offering insights into the future fate of Earth as the Sun transforms into a red giant.

astronomy1 year ago

Metallic Scar: Astronomers Spot Cannibal Star with Unique Mark

Astronomers using the Very Large Telescope have observed a scar on the surface of a white dwarf, indicating ingestion of planetary debris, shedding light on the behavior of "cannibal" stars. The scar, made up of metal elements from a planetary fragment or asteroid, was found to be prevented from mixing with the rest of the star's surface by its magnetic field. This discovery provides insight into the fate of our own solar system, as our sun is expected to become a white dwarf in about 5 billion years.